Hyperhidrosis (Botox) injections

Our Dermatologists only use Botox brand as they have found it lasts longer in our clinical setting compared to other brands

What are Hyperhidrosis Injections?

Botox(c) injections are used for treating hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) on the body, typically the armpits, feet, hand or back.The Botox(c) works to block the action of the nerves which activate the sweat glands thus reducing the amount of sweating. Typically patients will have treatment once a year, some find they experience more sweating in the summer months, while for other patients it may be the winter months while wearing more clothing.

What is involved in Hyperhidrosis Injections?

The area being treated is numbed with a topical anaesthetic 40 minutes prior to the treatment to make it a more comfortable procedure. Ice-packs or in some instances local anaesthetic is sometimes also used. The dermatologist injects the Botox(c) in a grid-like pattern at 1cm intervals across the area being treated. A typical session lasts 20 to 40 minutes. The Dermatologist will tend to treat both armpits or both feet or both hands, or the back as part of a session. They may also recommend the hyperhidrosis injections as part of a broader treatment plan for excessive sweating.

What are the risks or potential side effects of Hyperhidrosis Injections?

There may be some level of discomfort after the procedure including; pain, burning, stinging, swelling or bruising. In some cases headaches and muscle weakness may occur.

Botox(c) injections should not be used in pregnancy or when breast feeding. There are also certain neurological conditions were the procedure should be avoided such as Motor Neurone disease, and Myasthenia Gravis. Caution is advised when taking certain medications such as aminoglycoside antibiotics, Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine , blood thinning agents such as warfarin or aspirin, as they can alter the effect of the effect of the Botox(c) and cause bruising.

Is there any preparation needed before having Hyperhidrosis Injections?

All patients interested in treatment need to have an initial consultation with a Dermatologist. They will assess your suitability for treatment and other components to the treatment plan for managing excessive sweating. There are certain medications you should stop taking before receiving Botox(c) injections such as the ones mentioned above. Your dermatologist will be able to advise you on any other precautions you may require during your consultation prior to treatment. Depending on the area being treated, we would recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing and footwear.

What aftercare is required for Hyperhidrosis Injections?

Patients should avoid exercise and alcohol for 24 hours. They should avoid sun exposure, exposure to UV light, freezing temperatures and saunas for 2 weeks after treatment. Patients can return to work after treatment. Where patients have had the soles of their feet treated, they should have made arrangements to be chaperoned from the clinic as it will be uncomfortable for them to walk.

What is the cost of Hyperhidrosis Injections?

Treatment is based on the number of units being used, and typically 100 units are used to treat both palms, both armpits or both feet soles, and 200 units may be required for good coverage of the back. You can find our fee schedule here. This is a self-pay treatment at our clinic, we are unable to invoice private health insurers for this treatment and patients must pay in full on the day of their treatment.